Cheesy Kielbasa, Potato, and Ground Beef Skillet – The Ultimate Comfort Food
Why You’ll Love This One-Skillet Recipe
Looking for a quick, hearty dinner that’s loaded with flavor and easy to make? This Cheesy Kielbasa, Potato, and Ground Beef Skillet is the perfect choice. With tender potatoes, juicy kielbasa, and savory ground beef, all brought together by a creamy cheddar cheese sauce, it’s the definition of comfort food.
Ideal for busy weeknights, this one-skillet wonder saves time and cleanup while delivering a meal that everyone will love.
What Makes This Dish Special?
- One-Skillet Wonder: Fewer dishes to clean up while still packing in all the flavors of a hearty dinner.
- Cheesy Perfection: The rich cheddar sauce brings all the ingredients together for an indulgent, gooey finish.
- Versatile Ingredients: Use your favorite type of sausage or add veggies like bell peppers or peas for a personalized twist.
How to Make Cheesy Kielbasa, Potato, and Ground Beef Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Protein:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 lb (450g) kielbasa sausage, sliced
- Veggies:
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Sauce and Seasonings:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- For Garnish:
- Chopped fresh parsley
Step-by-Step Directions
1. Cook the Proteins:
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess fat and set the beef aside.
- In the same skillet, add the kielbasa slices and cook for 3–4 minutes until lightly crisp. Remove and set aside.
2. Sauté the Veggies:
- In the same skillet, sauté the diced onion and minced garlic for 2–3 minutes, or until fragrant.
- Add the diced potatoes and sprinkle with paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir occasionally and cook for 5–7 minutes to slightly soften the potatoes.
3. Combine and Simmer:
- Return the ground beef and kielbasa to the skillet with the potatoes. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine everything evenly.
- Spread the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the mixture.
4. Melt and Finish:
- Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low. Let the dish simmer for 10–15 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender and the cheese is fully melted.
5. Garnish and Serve:
- Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for a fresh, vibrant touch.
- Serve the skillet hot, either on its own or with a side of crusty bread to soak up the cheesy goodness.
Tips for the Perfect Skillet Meal
- Use a Nonstick Skillet: This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup even easier.
- Customize the Protein: Swap the kielbasa with smoked sausage, chorizo, or even chicken for a different flavor profile.
- Make It Creamier: Add a little more heavy cream if you want a richer sauce.
- Add Veggies: Bell peppers, peas, or green beans make great additions for extra texture and nutrition.
- Save Time: Pre-boil the potatoes for 5 minutes to speed up the cooking process.
Why This Recipe is a Winner
This Cheesy Kielbasa, Potato, and Ground Beef Skillet is a comforting and satisfying dish that’s perfect for feeding a hungry crowd. The combination of savory meats, creamy cheese sauce, and tender potatoes is a guaranteed hit with both kids and adults.
Not only is it packed with flavor, but it’s also a one-skillet recipe, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights. Serve it as a standalone meal, or pair it with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded dinner.